Status Update

I figured you some of you might be interested where exactly we are standing. I am trying to push for a BETA release beginning of august, though I know I've said that several times before. Still, it seems I might actually make it this time, considering how far i've gotten.

Character Creation:
Characters are now saved in the new SQL database. It stores information for the admins, as well as a few variables that saves the users UI usage, so they don't have to reorganise their spells each time they log in. Stats, skills, abilities, etc. are also saved in case something messes up their character.

The database also holds two version of stats and skills. A Base stat, the actual value of the characteristic or the skill of the player and a temp stat, which will be used for long term effects, making it possible to implement things like poison or disease in our system that affect constitution and strength. Actual rolls and calculations are made on the 'current' stats, which are loaded in game. Current stats are usually affected by short-term effects, such as buffs from spells. Logging out and then in again, cancels these short-term effects.

Combat:
Combat is up and ready. The calculations are done correctly for the custom system and the four stances, dodge, fencing, defensive and offensive are finished. The next step will be to add martial arts and combat abilities that can be learned from NPCs, though this is probably a job for after the BETA.

Occultism:
The system has been converted to make use of the database and I've changed a few spells. You are still required to create magic circles and such, though this is now done through a crafting UI. Certain rituals will require components or items to set up. There is presently a small problem where the Magic Points indicator doesn't change, though this shouldn't be hard to fix.

Overland Map Encounters:
The encounter system is done, though there is still little more to do then fight bandits that are are wandering around the area. Fatigue is supposed to be affected when traveling on the overland map by foot, though there are a few thigns going wrong with this. The scripts still need to be changed to make use of the new database as well, which will be my priority for the next few days. I'm hoping to get this done by wednesday. That gives me another week or so, to start adding encounters and implement an area or two suitable for PCs to explore. A dungeon in D&D terms. It will also give me some time to think about what to do with the fatigue system.

Finally there is game content. Though the entire area where the beta takes place will be rather small, I'm happy to say that there won't be a lack of lore and setting information. There will be plenty of books to read and NPCs to talk to, to get involved with the setting.

I'll see you guys in a week or two, hopefully with an online server.

What? no one's commented?

I for one am looking forward to it! Really hope things go according to plan. I've been watching progress for quite awhile!